There is little appreciation of the tremendous suffering and loss of the first people (Tlingit language) that happened as a result of the Klondike gold rush…once a small valley full of trees and natural streams, modern Skagway is a collection of historical facades, gravel landfill, and sizeable docks that stretch out like fingers towards oncoming tourists. This place was once a vital bridge between Coastal and interior groups who relied on routes to trade the riches of the sea for those of the land. The US/Canada border effectively separates families, tribes and traditional relationships due to regulations and a reluctance to recognise cross boundary indigenous rights and relationships.
Nevertheless, went on an incredible journey on Tunnel Mountain on the White Pass railway, constructed as a result of the gold rush and is an engineering miracle! It climbs from sea level to 3,000 feet in 20 miles and features steep grades. It has 110 miles of track.
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